Big 5 Sporting Goods in Cañon City will open its doors to the public Thursday night - just in time for the winter sports season and holiday shopping.

Shoes - ranging from work boots to athletics to Bearpaws; fall and winter apparel for men, women and children; guns and ammunition; camping, hunting and fishing gear; and exercise equipment - it's all stocked and ready for eager shoppers, athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.

"We are a full range, full-line sporting goods store," said Craig Joseph, project manager. Joseph and Mark Fresquez, manager of the Pueblo store, are helping Cañon City store manager Elizabeth Hawk and her staff get the store ready to open. Fresquez said people have been excited to see the inside, even at times peeking in the windows to catch a glimpse of what Big 5 has to offer.

Big 5 Sporting Goods has about 421 stores in the western United States, Joseph said.

"We like the community and the landscape of it and we think this will be a great opportunity for this type of store," Joseph said. "We are excited to add another one in Colorado."

Fresquez said the store's winter department is likely to be a hit with local customers.

"Another thing that a lot of people really like and will do really well is our toy selection," he said, "Especially with the holidays coming."

NFL fans also are sure to enjoy the selection of football gift items and accessories.

"The Bronco stuff is hot right now," Fresquez said.

The store also carries items for youth sports ranging from soccer, baseball and football to lacrosse and golf. They also carry weightlifting equipment and sports medicine items including braces.

The store's building is about 10,000 square feet and employees 25 people. A grand opening is planned for Nov. 14 - 16. There will be giveaways, prizes and specials.

A ribbon cutting and VIP ceremony is slated from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. Thursday, and then doors immediately will open to the public. The store is located at 3215 E. U.S. 50 and the business phone is 275-3136. Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays.